Pittsville Area DIC Project

PROJECT STATUS: Plan to file application with the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin in Q2 2026.

Project Overview

ATC is proposing to build a new power line and a new substation in central Wood County, Wisconsin.

Project Description

  • New power line construction – A new 138-kilovolt power line connecting the new Bogside Substation, to a new Alliant Energy East Pittsville Substation just east of the city of Pittsville along State Highway 73.
  • The preferred route – This route will follow State Highway 73 to the east to the proposed Bogside substation site.
  • The alternative route – This route will follow State Highway 73 to Elm Road, turn south, then head east on Lincoln Road until Hwy 73, where it will turn south-east along Hwy 73 to the proposed Bogside substation site. 
  • New ATC substation – A new ATC 138-kV substation (named Bogside Substation) located approximately 7 miles northwest of the city of Wisconsin Rapids.

Project Need

The proposed project is needed to meet growing energy demands in the Pittsville area and strengthen grid reliability across central Wisconsin. This infrastructure will not only support load growth but also serve as a critical back-up electric source for the region. 

The project is subject to approval by the Public Service Commission of Wisconsin.  

Milestones

May 2026
June 2027
Q3 2027 - Q1 2029

Project construction is anticipated to begin.

Q2 2029

Project is anticipated to be in service.

May 2026
*Dates are anticipated and subject to changes
June 2027
*Dates are anticipated and subject to changes
Q3 2027 - Q1 2029

Project construction is anticipated to begin.

*Dates are anticipated and subject to changes
Q2 2029

Project is anticipated to be in service.

*Dates are anticipated and subject to changes

Project FAQ's

A:

The project is designed to address both present and future energy needs, accommodate shifts in energy generation, and reinforce local energy delivery. Based on ATC’s system operating experience and planning assessments from the North American Electric Reliability Corporation, this investment is essential to ensure continued reliable service. 

In addition to enhancing reliability, the new power line will introduce an additional source of electricity into the region— reducing outage durations and increasing system redundancy. 

A:

The Public Service Commission of Wisconsin is the regulatory agency with the authority to approve or deny a project. Wisconsin law requires ATC to provide two buildable route options. For this project, ATC has identified north and south route options (see project map) that we will submit to the PSCW. The PSCW will determine the final route location.  

A:

Once ATC submits the application in Q2 2026, you can provide comments to the PSCW, either electronically or in writing. You may attend a public hearing and make your statements for the PSCW record.  

A:

ATC evaluates routes that balance community needs with environmental impacts, constructability, current and future land use, project cost and specific electric system needs. When proposing new power lines, Wisconsin law requires co-location with existing utility corridors and infrastructure – like highways, where it is feasible. 

A:

If you have additional questions about the power line project or would like to discuss it in more detail, please contact Kurt Hendrickson with ATC Local Relations at (920) 338-6515 or khendrickson@atcllc.com.